NFL, Colts could add to D’Qwell Jackson’s discipline

Share this:

This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

D'Qwell Jackson

NFL, Colts could add to D’Qwell Jackson’s discipline

D'Qwell Jackson

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (March 15, 2016) – The legal system has spoken, now the NFL and Indianapolis Colts might add to D’Qwell Jackson’s concerns.

The veteran linebacker could face discipline from the league or his team after being found guilty of simple assault Monday in Washington, D.C. stemming from an altercation with a pizza delivery driver in February 2015.

The NFL had no comment Tuesday morning, but commissioner Roger Goodell could take action against Jackson – a fine or suspension – under the league’s personal conduct policy. A one-game suspension might be appropriate considering Jackson has an otherwise spotless off-the-field record.

It will be interesting to see if the Colts are proactive with Jackson, who released a statement Tuesday saying he planned to appeal:

“I was surprised and disappointed by yesterday’s verdict and we are planning to appeal. I sincerely believe justice will eventually prevail. Nevertheless, I sincerely regret that this case ever happened and has gotten to this point. I will continue to live my life in a way that confirms I am a good and honorable citizen.”

“We’re disappointed to read reports of D’Qwell Jackson’s misdemeanor verdict in Washington, D.C.,” the team said in a Monday statement. “We’ve not had an opportunity to review any of the evidence or testimony from the trial and have not made any determination as to any action we might take as a result.”

Jackson is the third year of a four-year, $22 million contract. He has led the team in tackles in each of the past two seasons, including a career-best 193 last season. He also made his first Pro Bowl appearance in 2014.

The Colts already have taken action against one of their linebackers following an off-the-field incident. They waived Jonathan Newsome last month after he was arrested for possession of marijuana.

Jackson and Newsome, though, are different situations. The assault verdict is the first stain on Jackson’s resume. Newsome had several off-the-field issues before the Colts selected him in the fifth round of the 2014 draft.

A conviction for simple assault in Washington, D.C. is punishable by a maximum of 180 days in jail. Sentencing is April 6.